Understanding how to leverage the power of the internet is essential to the success of the modern small business. Here are four surprising statistics about how small businesses are using (or not using) the web:
1. A quarter of small businesses still do not have websites
In 2011, less than 50% of SMEs had a website; three years later and that figure is down to 26.6%. Despite the rapid rate of uptake, some SMEs are still being left behind in the digital revolution.
2. YouTube is massive
Only 2% of internet users have never watched a YouTube video. This matters because YouTube (and online video in general) presents an opportunity for SMEs to connect with customers, better explain products and services and to compete with their larger rivals in a forum where customers are already looking for information.
3. Businesses miss “offline” promotional opportunities
Lectures, workshops and presentations are all great ways to demonstrate skills and experience, and to drive visitors to websites. However just 36% of small business owners take the opportunity, meaning two-thirds of small businesses are missing the opportunity to raise their profile and increase website traffic through word of mouth.
4. Social media is confusing
When asked what was the biggest hurdle to using social media effectively, 48% of small business owners claimed it was simply knowing where to start. Other issues included generating an ROI, or knowing which social networks to target. But with so many businesses confused as to how they should begin, these other problems could be directly related.